An inaugural horse show featuring all Thoroughbreds attracted nearly 800 entries and filled 16 classes. The Totally Thoroughbred Horse Show, held July 14 at Pimlico Race Course near Baltimore, "exceeded all expectations," according to Georganne Hale, the show manager and Maryland Jockey Club's racing secretary.
Hale conceived the idea for the show with Adena Springs retirement program manager Stacie Clark-Rogers.
"The idea was to make people aware that Thoroughbreds can have other occupations after the racetrack," said Hale. "I thought we'd have 60 horses, if we were lucky. We ended up with more nearly 300 horses and with so many running in more than one race, we had to split five of the seven classes into multiple divisions.
"Everyone seemed to have a great time. We are getting positive feedback and people already want to know if we can do more of these throughout the year."
The overall champion was Houston, who edged Testimonialy and Lovey for top honors. Ridden by North Harford High School graduate Megan Sullivan, the 12-year-old finished second in two classes (Class 6-Division C and Class 7-Division A) earlier in the afternoon.
"I give him all the credit," said an emotional Sullivan. "We raised him from a baby, buying him at the Timonium sale. I have been to the Preakness almost every year of my life (Sullivan is 26) and to be able to show in the infield was really awesome. I have done some big shows but to do it at a very historical place was so fun."
Nearly $10,000 in prize money was paid to the owners of the first three finishers in each class (60%-winner; 30%-second place; 10%-third) and six ribbons were awarded for each class.